Keyamo recommits to aviation safety at inspection of  Prime Atlantic’s facilities

Sade Williams/Business a.m.

Festus Keyamo, Nigeria’s minister of aviation and aerospace development, has reiterated his commitment to enhancing air safety, underscoring the government’s position on safety and training in the country’s aviation industry.

Minister Keyamo led a high-level delegation that included Olubunmi Kuku, managing director of Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), and other senior executives, on a facility inspection tour of Prime Atlantic Safety Services (PASS), a Nigerian firm specialising in aviation security, maritime, and safety training, thus highlighting the government’s dedication to supporting innovation in aviation safety and capacity building.

During the tour at PASS’ state-of-the-art facility in Ipara, Ogun State, Keyamo commended the institution’s role in advancing safety training within Nigeria’s aviation and maritime sectors, emphasising the importance of local expertise in safeguarding the nation’s airspace and waterways.

“The federal government is committed to fostering partnerships that elevate the standards of safety and training in aviation. Our collaboration with pioneering institutions like PASS signifies our focus on not only local but globally competitive aviation standards,” Keyamo said.

Folake Soyannwo, managing director of PASS, providing insights into the company’s background and mission, noted that PASS has been operational since 2007, founded with the support of a Danish partner.

She further highlighted that PASS’ courses adhere to rigorous international certifications, with efforts underway to secure certification from the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). This, she said, will bolster Nigeria’s reputation for excellence in safety training and compliance with global safety protocols.

Ayo Otuyalo, group managing director of PASS, further elaborated on the institution’s mission, stating that “everyone working offshore should undergo training at PASS.” This focus ensures that PASS-trained personnel meet the highest standards for operational safety, strengthening Nigeria’s competitive edge in aviation and maritime sectors.

Keyamo, alongside Kuku, toured various PASS training facilities, including advanced simulation centres designed for realistic emergency response and safety scenarios.

A statement by Tunde Moshood, special adviser on media and communications to the minister noted that the visit provided Keyamo and FAAN executives an opportunity to witness firsthand the innovative advancements and state-of-the-art technologies that PASS employs to deliver comprehensive safety training programs.

As Nigeria positions itself as a hub for aviation excellence in Africa, this visit marks a significant step in the federal government’s agenda to raise aviation standards, support high-quality local training providers, and promote international best practices within the industry.